Today I turned 27.
Normally – I hate my birthday. Not so much the fact that I am having another birthday -but the whole spotlight on me -sort of makes me uncomfortable. Getting older, being old -the whole package. But today? Today was pretty epic.
It was one of those all-around amazing days that left my heart feeling full and happy. An almost guilty type happy -because the day has been that great. The kind of day that fills you up with all the happy, bubbly feelings that leave you smiling. A kind of day I wish I could bottle up so tightly and pull it out on grey days.
Mom went all out -as she does, to make me feel special. With cake, balloons, presents and flowers. We had lunch together -and rounded the afternoon out with a free coffee from Starbucks. Nothing beats free!
There was a special package in the mail from my friend, a number of special messages and of course -a few Starbucks gift cards from mom and Amanda and co.
The evening was finished up with a free (yes, free!) steak dinner at a restaurant with a small group of good friends, mom and dad. I can’t remember the last time I was out for my birthday with friends. It’s always nice to spend time with family -but adding some really good friends to the mix made my heart happy.
It was a…wonderful day.
I didn’t win a million dollars -but cashed out in the friends and family department.
A big thank you to everyone who made my day special. I really, really enjoyed it.
I’d say 27 is off to a good start.
Tangled Thoughts 
Many happy returns. With the wisdom of hindsight, I can tell you that birthdays are goooooood. In fact, the more you have, the longer you live!
As to telephotos for landscapes, until now my default lens has been a 28-300 on a Nikon DX, and I frequently found myself zooming in, almost naturally, to get a shot that seemed right.
Am now using two lenses: 16-80 and 70-300 – easier on my back – and will be spending a week doing the Inner Passage of Alaska next month.
Sounds like a good range! All the best with your venture to South East! Let me know if you need a tour guide!